How You can Easily dress for Autumn Running

Running in late September, October and even early November can be absolutely amazing if you know how to dress for autumn running! Minnesota gives us colorful leaves and brisk temperatures. Running around the lakes or Mississippi river can feel like your own private retreat. When dressed appropriately, you can take full advantage of these gorgeous days.

Below are four essential items to help you dress for autumn running. Add them to your running wardrobe now and chances are, they’ll come in handy next spring too.

This past week gave us a taste of the fall to come in Minnesota. With brisk mornings in the 40’s, it was time to drag out the fall running gear. When I first started running, I thought anything cooler than 60 was cause to bundle up. I’d end up overheating and miserable. I’d then under-dress when it would dip into the 30’s and come back freezing, barely able to move my limbs.

Two Easy Guides

I now have two basic rules of thumb for fall running attire. Anything below 50, sleeves and maybe a vest (depending on wind). Below 40, running tights, gloves and a hat. Below that and we get into winter running and that’s something nobody wants to think about yet.

Of course there are other variables as well. Wind, sun, distance and whether you are a hot or cold runner. Since those things are extremely unpredictable, here are four things you need to have in your wardrobe. They will allow you the greatest versatility when running this fall.

A Runner’s Autumn Wardrobe

Vest. These are tremendously beneficial as they provide extra warmth and wind protection. Because you can unzip as necessary, it’s also a great way to regulate if it gets warmer. I personally use the New Balance Sequence Vest, but since they don’t make that any more, you might like the Asics Speed Windstopper Vest. It’s light and blocks wind well. It also has reflector stripes and pockets.

Gloves. I use a pair of knit gloves I received free before a marathon. Although disposable, I kept them. They comfortably prevent fingers from going numb. If it becomes too warm, they are easy to take off and carry, or toss altogether. Amazon, Target or the dollar store carry these dirt cheap gems.

Arm warmers. One of those things you don’t realize you need until you use them. They hug your arms and can provide almost as much warmth as a jacket. Their versatility comes in the ability to roll them up, down, or removing entirely. I use a type similar to these Asics armwarmers that fit snugly, and regulate body temperature on their own.

Hats. I wear a Craft Zero Skull hat when temps drop below 40. It’s thin enough to forget you are wearing it, but warm enough to keep the ears toasty. It’s also a great substitute for a headband or other sweat inhibiting device. If you do start overheating, it stuffs into a pocket or waistband.

The key to fall running in Minnesota is wearing versatile clothing. Spending more on self regulating and adjustable material is worth the investment. Being uncomfortably warm or cold can be easily avoided. Find what works for you and stick to it.

How do you Dress for Autumn Running?

Nathan started running when he was 14. 20+ years later, he's still going. When he's not running, he enjoys exploring the city with his son, finding new restaurants with his wife, traveling, or backpacking. He loves dark beer, dark chocolate, and dark coffee.Nathan currently lives in Portland, Oregon, but works in Minneapolis and runs wherever he is. Favorite Minnesota running route is anything that takes him along the Mississippi River.
Race Results.Nathan's day job is a Consultant with Leadership Vision in Downtown Minneapolis.

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My temperature is 60-65, now under 55 I wear long trousers and sleeves too. Under 50 I wear one layer more (functional thin T-shirt) and neckcloth (can be used as a headband or hat). Under 40 I will add stockings and 35 gloves. I really need to be warm. I’m beginner, my first autumn came and I had to adapt 😀